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Twin towers poking from the trees atop Rabbit Ears Peak in northern Colorado reminded early settlers of a giant rabbit lying in grass with just its ears poking out. Over the years, the ears have eroded considerably, and the eastern ear has partially crumbled away. The prominent landmark towers over more than 300 miles of snowmobile trails immediately west of Steamboat Springs, offering sledders picturesque mountain riding punctuated with meadow play areas.

Trail Conditions

Enjoy approximately 250 miles of groomed trails winding through the Rabbit Ears area. Additional ungroomed trails allow you to go on a more rugged backcountry adventure. Multiple access points along U.S. 40 provide ample parking and staging areas. The trail system is also accessible directly from Steamboat Springs along Route 38 through a winter backcountry permit area that abuts an elk habitat and the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. The trail system accesses Fish Creek Reservoir and a number of lakes as well as forested and open areas.

Riding Legally

Display your Colorado registration decal or nonresident snowmobile decal on the upper half of your machine's cowling to gain access to the Rabbit Ears Pass trail system. To ride the permit-only backcountry area, obtain a permit at the Dry Lake parking area off Route 38. Make sure your snowmobile is equipped with a muffler that keeps sound below 88 decibels and sufficient lighting should you plan to ride after dark. You must be at least 16 years old and have a valid drivers license to operate a snowmobile.

Guided Tours

If you book a guided tour, you'll be picked up at your lodging and outfitted with a sled, bibs, boots and helmets, and supplied with warm drinks to keep you toasty on the trail. Kids as young as 3 years old are welcome to ride with a parent and can drive in the open meadows with their parent on board. Tours range from 2 to 6 hours, with trails suitable for novice through expert riders. Experience the Rabbit Ears snowmobile trails at sunset or by moonlight on a dinner tour.

Snowmobiling Safety

Known as Dead Man's Pass to the locals, U.S. 40 through Rabbit Ears Pass is one of the snowiest and slickest in the state. Use extreme caution and chains or snow tires to access the snowmobile areas. Consult the Colorado Avalanche Center's online conditions for the Steamboat area before heading out to backcountry areas as avalanches are common along some trails. The 8,000- to 10,000-foot elevation along the trails increases your respiration rate, causing your body to lose fluids quickly, and bringing on symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, fatigue, and nausea. Begin hydrating several days before arriving at the pass, bring plenty of water along on your ride and pack over-the-counter remedies to help with symptoms.